Beauty Therapy in Namibia

Shariva's qualification gives hope in Namibia

01 May 2012

With an estimated 51% of the Namibian population unemployed, City & Guilds is giving learners like Shariva Nel the skills to kick-start their careers and help rejuvenate the economy.

Turning a pastime into a career is a common dream, and when Shariva Nel decided to turn her passion for make-up into a career in the beauty sector, she realised how competitive the job marketplace is in Namibia, with its huge levels of unemployment.

A more positive outlook

‘As well as acquiring the skills of my trade,’ says Shariva, ‘I’ve also found that my business sense and client care have improved drastically, and I’ve learnt self-discipline and perseverance – as well as a more positive outlook on life.’

The hands-on training that Shariva gets at Shadonai is preparing her for working in the real world – helping her to hit the ground running when she finishes her course. ‘This qualification makes seeking employment much easier. I’ve been gaining skills and confidence in the Student Clinic at Shadonai, where I can practice the treatments that I’ll be delivering in the real world.’

Not only will Shariva soon have the skills she needs to gain employment and contribute to building Namibia’s economy, she’s also been inspired to think more about her future. ‘If I don't become a lecturer at Shadonai,’ says Shariva, ‘then I want to be my own boss, and run a business of my own.’